An In-depth Investigation of Technology Management Process in the Metal Processing Industry

Purpose: This study investigates the technology management sphere within an organization from a process approach perspective and explains the technology management process (TMP) and its course and dynamics, along with circumstances influencing it, to a large extent. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study employs the multiple-case-study methodology to investigate the process approach to Technology Management (TM) in manufacturing companies. The investigation is carried out in several metal processing companies. In-depth observations are collected, and visualization techniques on flowcharts are employed for modeling and presenting the generalizations. Findings: From the study, a general TMP is elaborated, consisting of a sequence of four major steps interspersed with economic evaluation. The process is characterized by modularity, and it is abundant with many feedback loops and repeated assessments, which support architectural knowledge creation. The study implies that learning sources and means are the crucial factors influencing studied TMP. Practical Implications: The study provides practical knowledge of TM, which will help accelerate activities related to developing and implementing new technologies in manufacturing companies that use similar technology components. Identifying the main circumstances of TMP make it easier to achieve higher productivity. Originality/Value: The Business Process Management approach to TM's investigation in companies provides a refreshing view on how they deal with technologies. The study shows that the real TM is more complex than it might have seemed from widely discussed literature models. An important observation is the by-the-way learning phenomenon. This learning is spread over time and takes advantage of emerging opportunities from diverse sources.